GENERIC NAME: PROMETHAZINE WITH PHENYLEPHRINE AND CODEINE - ORAL (pro-METH-uh-zeen WITH fen-ill-EFF-rin AND KO-deen)

BRAND NAME(S): Phenergan VC w/Codeine

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: Promethazine is an antihistamine used to relieve runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing and itchy throat. Phenylephrine is a decongestant that provides relief from nasal or sinus congestion caused by allergies or the common cold. Codeine is a narcotic used to control a cough. The combination provides relief from sinus or nasal congestion and cough caused by the common cold or allergies.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication with food if stomach upset occurs. Take this medication as directed. Do not increase the dose or take it more often or longer than prescribed. This is a strong medication and must only be used for the condition and by the person for which it is prescribed. It should not be used for just any cough or cold. It is helpful to drink plenty of fluids (6-8 glasses a day) to help relieve congestion.

SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, nervousness, restlessness, difficulty urinating, trouble sleeping, drowsiness, headache or constipation may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. If these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: skin rash, itching, rapid heart rate, convulsions, hallucinations. Because this medication may cause dizziness or drowsiness, use caution performing tasks requiring alertness and avoid consuming alcohol which can aggravate this effect. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney or liver disease, lung disease, asthma, ulcers, glaucoma, difficulty urinating or an enlarged prostate, history of seizures or drug dependency, any allergies. This drug should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk; consult your doctor before breast-feeding.